Is it time to purchase, or build, a doghouse for Fido or Fifi? Don’t just run out and grab the first doghouse that catches your eye. A trip to the lumber store may be in order, but read on before you grab your keys.
Several factors will affect the decision of which doghouse is right for you and your pet. Think about the weather conditions in your area. Be certain to choose the location for the doghouse wisely.
When buying or building a doghouse, size matters. This may sound obvious, but be certain to take the time to measure. Avoid guessing a proper size house for your pet. This may reduce frustration later should your estimates be slightly off.
Consider the type of amenities you want your doghouse to include. Your pet’s personality may also play a role in this decision. For example,
You may prefer the doghouse contain an area for food and a water dispenser. If your pet likes to be tidy, consider a toy area for his favorite chew toys. Some pet owners even add heat and air conditioning capabilities.
Location, location, location:
Take a look around your yard. Find the perfect place in your property for the doghouse. A small doghouse may be secluded into foliage or shrubbery for solitude. A larger dog probably should not be located near a short fence. Should the dog jump the fence, it may be injured or susceptible to other dangers.
Never place the doghouse on the lower end of a hill or slope in the yard. A doghouse located on the slope may be overrun with water.
Consider the direction of wind during the winter months. Avoid placing the doghouse in line with the harsh winds of the winter season. This will help to keep your pet more comfortable.
Weather Conditions:
For what kind of weather conditions will the doghouse and your pet need to be prepared ? Hot climates will certainly dictate a need for adequate water supply to be available. Regions with winter climates may indicate the need for insulated walls of a doghouse to keep your pet warm and cozy.
If you decide that your pet will need an insulated doghouse, inner walls are a must. The interior walls will keep the insulation out of your pet’s reach. It is unsafe for your pet to be able to chew on any insulation. Be certain to buy or build the right size house for your dog. If an insulated doghouse is too large for the pet, the dog’s body heat will be unable to keep the doghouse a comfortable temperature. Always remember to bring your pet indoors if the thermometer plummets to frigid temperatures.
A fabulous option for areas with both cold winter and hot summer seasons is to use solar panes for the roof. Such a roof will deflect the hot summer sun and absorb energy for cold winter months. The comfort of your pet is of highest concern.
Measurements:
Begin by taking measurements of your pet in different positions. You want to make sure that your pet will have adequate room to stand up, turn around, and lie down in the house. Measure the height of the animal. This will help to determine how tall to make the opening to the doghouse. It is best to have a door high enough so that your dog does not need to lower its head much to enter.
The width of your pet is important. The opening to the house should be about 4 inches wider than your pet. The length of your pet lying down is very important. The doghouse should be at least one foot longer than the measurement of your dog lying down or stretching.
If you are purchasing or building a doghouse for your puppy, do keep in mind how quickly your pet will grow. You will want to have a house large enough for your adult pet to be comfortable.
Another measurement to consider is the overhang of the roof. Your doghouse should have adequate overhang. This will allow water to be shed from the roof and away from the house and your pet. It may be a good idea to slightly raise the doghouse above the ground level. This is especially important for small doghouses.
If you have several dogs, you may want to have separate doghouses for each animal or one extra large house for the pets to share. Doghouses are available for multiple pets. You can purchase or build a house with interior walls to create separate rooms. Some larger doghouses will have separate feeding and watering areas. Consider a house with multiple doors if you will have more than one pet in the house.
As you decide what type of doghouse is best for your pet, you must keep many variables in mind. Consider the location, size, and weather conditions. A few steps will make it easy to choose the right house for your pet.
